France continues to rank among the world’s most attractive study destinations due to its high-quality education system, globally recognized universities, and increasing number of English-taught programmes. For international students, one of the most appealing developments is the availability of scholarships that do not strictly require IELTS, especially where applicants can provide alternatives such as a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or proof of prior education in English. Below are five trending scholarships in France for 2026 that international students can explore without IELTS requirements in many cases. 1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (French Government) The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is one of the most prestigious French government-funded programmes for international students pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees. Key Highlights Fully funded scholarship by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs Covers monthly allowance, travel, and other study-related expenses Focus areas: Engineering, Law, Economics, Political Science, and Management Available at top French universities IELTS Flexibility Many institutions accepting Eiffel scholars may waive IELTS if the applicant provides proof of English-medium education or meets internal university language requirements. 2. Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarships Université Paris-Saclay offers highly competitive scholarships for outstanding international students enrolling in Master’s programmes. Key Highlights Monthly stipend for living expenses Access to one of France’s top research-intensive universities Covers science, engineering, social sciences, and more Strong focus on academic excellence IELTS Flexibility Applicants may not always need IELTS if they can submit: MOI certificate Previous degree taught in English University-specific English assessment alternatives 3. ENS de Lyon Scholarships (Ampère & Related Grants) The École Normale Supérieure de Lyon provides scholarships for high-achieving international students in Master’s and PhD programmes. Key Highlights Partial to fully funded depending on programme Strong emphasis on research and academic excellence Available across sciences, humanities, and social sciences Prestigious French Grande École status IELTS Flexibility ENS de Lyon often considers applicants with: English-taught academic backgrounds Strong academic records in English-based instruction Internal language evaluation instead of IELTS in some cases 4. Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarship Sciences Po Paris offers the Emile Boutmy Scholarship for outstanding non-EU international students. Key Highlights Covers partial to full tuition fees depending on profile Available for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees Focus on political science, international relations, law, and social sciences Highly competitive selection process IELTS Flexibility Sciences Po may waive IELTS if applicants: Have prior education in English Provide MOI certificates Meet alternative English proficiency proof accepted by the institution 5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships (France-Based Programs) Although Erasmus Mundus is a European initiative, many partner universities are based in France, making it a major pathway for studying in the country. Key Highlights Fully funded (tuition, travel, insurance, and monthly stipend) Study across multiple European universities including French institutions Wide range of disciplines including science, engineering, and social sciences Highly international academic exposure IELTS Flexibility Many Erasmus Mundus programmes accept: MOI certificates Prior English-taught degrees Alternative language proofs depending on consortium rules Why Study in France Without IELTS? France is increasingly flexible in its language requirements due to the expansion of English-taught programmes. Many universities now prioritize: Academic performance Motivation letters Relevant experience Proof of English-medium education rather than standardized tests This makes France a strong destination for students seeking affordable or fully funded education without IELTS barriers. General Application Tips Prepare Strong Documents Statement of Purpose (SOP) Academic transcripts Recommendation letters MOI certificate (if not using IELTS) Apply Early Most French scholarships have strict deadlines between January and April each year. Target English-Taught Programs Always confirm whether the programme is fully English-taught to avoid language issues during admission. Call for Action France offers a wide range of trending scholarships for 2026 that may not require IELTS, especially for students who can demonstrate English proficiency through prior education. Opportunities such as the Eiffel Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus, and Paris-Saclay scholarships continue to attract thousands of international applicants every year. For students seeking affordable world-class education in Europe, France remains one of the strongest options—especially for those looking to bypass IELTS requirements through alternative documentation. 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